Decoding the hormonal link to better health
PCOS is connected to many hormones like progesterone, testosterone, insulin and prolactin. In this post, I will talk about the connection between hormones and PCOS, based on my own experience. While specific symptoms differ from person to person, this post will hopefully help you understand your hormones a little better and help you take care of your health a little better as well.
Healthy skin – Happy me
Pcos and its link with thyroid
Pcos and its link with insulin
Pcos and its link with prolactin
Let’s discuss the last one first. The prolactin hormone is released when a woman is lactating. This is the only time when high prolactin levels are considered normal. Once you stop breastfeeding the hormones should stabilise and go back to normal. If this does not happen then a medical examination is definitely called for. Prolactin levels fluctuate in women with PCOS. Wrong diet and sedentary lifestyles can also lead to fluctuations, even in young girls. If the levels are not alarmingly high, then doctors usually try to manage it with some lifestyle changes, but if they are, then some medical intervention might be called for.
I’ve experienced elevated levels of prolactin post pregnancy. I had a few irritating episodes of mild acne breakouts and my t zone became very oily. I also gained some very stubborn weight around my abdomen and started having mood swings. Even though my periods were normal, I still went in for a thorough medical check-up which revealed a slightly elevated level of prolactin. I was not prescribed any medication but just advised to tweak my diet slightly, which did resolve the issue fairly quickly.
My 25 year old sister, Indian trap shooter. Team India! Also has PCOS, annoying skin issues and raised prolactin levels. She tries to keep herself fit by working out 4 to 5 times a week.
Post by Rajeshwari Kumari (@riakumari) on Instagram
In most cases, a balanced diet and exercise regime can stabilize this hormonal imbalance. Avoid processed foods and add foods rich in Vitamin B6 and nuts and seeds. Lean proteins including egg whites, fish, turkey and even lean cuts of red meat are very good too. Add fruits and veggies like bananas, watermelons, fibrous green vegetables and sweet potatoes to your diet. But if the levels are very high then the doctor will decide on the medical intervention required to correct the situation. Please follow your doctor’s advice seriously and take your medication regularly. Also, remember, the best time to check your hormone levels is on the second or third day of your periods. The blood test should be done on an empty stomach with a minimum or 10-12 hours of fasting.
PCOS friendly, Vitamin b6 fortified foods
Try out some of the PCOS friendly food mentioned here and let me know how they work for you. Write to me below or using #stayrealstayyou on Instagram @shagunkhanna
